The BEST Chicago Tours and Things to Do

Looking to make the most of your visit to Chicago in 2024? Wondering about the best tours and activities to experience in the Windy City? Well, look no further!

Chicago has a stack of options that are sure to captivate and delight. But with so many choices, how do you narrow it down? Don’t worry, because this discussion will provide you with all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip.

From breathtaking river tours to immersive mob and crime experiences, and everything in between, Chicago has it all. And the best part? With free cancellation options available, you can book with confidence, knowing that your plans are flexible.

So, let’s dive in and discover the best Chicago tours and things to do in 2024!

Good To Know

• Chicago River Tours offer unique views of the city’s architecture and history, providing a memorable experience for travelers.
• Mob and Crime Tours allow visitors to explore Chicago’s criminal past, offering a glimpse into the city’s intriguing history.
• Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tours provide flexibility for travelers to explore top attractions at their own pace, including Millennium Park and Navy Pier.
• Chicago’s culinary delights, outdoor activities, shopping options, and entertainment scene offer a diverse range of experiences for visitors to enjoy.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Chicago River Tours

Chicago River tours offer a unique and captivating way to explore the city’s stunning architecture and vibrant history. With Chicago River boat tours, visitors can glide along the water, taking in the breathtaking skyscrapers and iconic landmarks that line the river’s edge.

These tours provide an up-close look at the magnificent Chicago River architecture, showcasing the city’s rich architectural heritage. From the historic buildings of the Loop to the modern marvels of the Magnificent Mile, passengers are treated to a visual feast of architectural wonders.

Knowledgeable guides provide fascinating commentary, sharing stories about the city’s development and the architects behind its most famous structures.

Whether it’s a leisurely cruise or an adrenaline-pumping speedboat tour, Chicago River tours are a must-do for anyone looking to truly experience the beauty and history of this remarkable city.

Observation Decks

After exploring the captivating architecture of the Chicago River on boat tours, visitors can now ascend to new heights and take in panoramic views of the city’s skyline from its remarkable observation decks. Here are four observation decks in Chicago that offer the best views:

• 360 Chicago Observation Deck: This deck offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. Visitors can experience the TILT, an exhilarating attraction that leans visitors out over Michigan Avenue from the 94th floor.

• Skydeck Chicago: Located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, this deck features The Ledge, a glass balcony that extends 4.3 feet out from the building. It provides thrilling views of the city from 1,353 feet above ground.

• The Signature Room at the 95th: Situated on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Center, this restaurant and lounge offers stunning views of the city while enjoying delicious food and drinks.

• LondonHouse Chicago: This luxury hotel features a rooftop bar with stunning views of the Chicago River and the city skyline. It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.

When comparing the Chicago River architecture cruises, visitors can choose between a 1.5-hour guided tour or a 45-minute family-friendly tour.

City Pass and Guided Tours

Visitors to Chicago can make the most of their time and save money with the City Pass and Guided Tours, offering a convenient way to explore the city’s top attractions and enjoy guided experiences.

Two popular options for visitors are the Chicago CityPASS and the Go City All-Inclusive Pass.

The Chicago CityPASS allows travelers to save 48% or more on five top attractions in the city. With a duration of 9 days, visitors have plenty of time to explore at their own pace. The pass has received a rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 304 reviews, indicating its popularity among travelers.

On the other hand, the Go City All-Inclusive Pass offers access to over 25 attractions for a duration of 1 to 5 days. Certified by GetYourGuide, this pass has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 320 reviews.

Both passes offer guided tours, allowing visitors to learn about the city’s history, architecture, and culture from knowledgeable guides. However, there are some pros and cons to consider.

The Chicago CityPASS offers a higher discount percentage and longer duration, making it ideal for those planning to visit multiple attractions.

On the other hand, the Go City All-Inclusive Pass provides access to a larger number of attractions, giving travelers more options to choose from.

Mob and Crime Tours

Exploring a darker side of the city’s history, travelers in Chicago can embark on thrilling Mob and Crime Tours, seeing the intriguing tales of organized crime and illicit activities. These tours offer a unique perspective on Chicago’s past, showcasing the city’s notorious gangster history and its connection to the world of true crime.

Here are four must-see attractions for those interested in delving into Chicago’s criminal underworld:

• The Chicago Crime Tour: This bus tour takes visitors on a journey through the city’s most notorious crime scenes, revealing stories of famous mobsters and the law enforcement officials who pursued them.

• The Untouchable Gangster Tour: Led by guides with a deep knowledge of Chicago’s mob history, this tour explores the neighborhoods and landmarks associated with infamous gangsters like Al Capone and John Dillinger.

• The Chicago Prohibition Tour: Explore the era of Prohibition and the speakeasies that thrived during this time. Learn about the city’s bootlegging operations and taste samples of craft cocktails.

• The Mob Museum: Located in the heart of Chicago, this museum offers a comprehensive look at the city’s criminal past, featuring interactive exhibits, artifacts, and engaging storytelling.

With these true crime attractions and gangster history tours, visitors can uncover the secrets and stories behind Chicago’s notorious underworld.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tours

Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tours in Chicago offer a convenient and flexible way for travelers to explore the city’s top attractions at their own pace. These tours provide numerous benefits for visitors, including the ability to hop on and off at various stops throughout the city, allowing them to spend more time at the places that interest them the most.

One of the best stops to visit on a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour in Chicago is Millennium Park, where travelers can admire the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture and enjoy live music performances.

Another must-visit stop is Navy Pier, a popular entertainment destination with stunning views of Lake Michigan.

Plus, the Magnificent Mile is a great stop for shopping and dining, while the Art Institute of Chicago is perfect for art enthusiasts.

With hop-on hop-off sightseeing tours, travelers can easily explore these and other top attractions in Chicago while enjoying the freedom to customize their itinerary.

Additional Activities and Attractions

When visiting Chicago, travelers have a wide range of additional activities and attractions to choose from, ensuring that there’s something for all to enjoy. Here are some of the best options to consider:

• Explore the Best Restaurants in Chicago: Indulge in the city’s vibrant food scene by trying out some of the best restaurants Chicago has to offer. From deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s to mouthwatering steaks at Gibson’s, there are endless culinary delights to satisfy any palate.

• Engage in Outdoor Activities: Chicago is known for its stunning parks and outdoor spaces. Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Lake Michigan shoreline, rent a bike and explore the picturesque trails in Millennium Park, or enjoy a picnic in Grant Park. For a unique experience, head to the Chicago Riverwalk and take a kayak or boat tour to admire the city’s architecture from a different perspective.

• Visit the Art Institute of Chicago: Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss a visit to the world-renowned Art Institute of Chicago. Explore the extensive collection of masterpieces, including iconic works by artists like Monet, Picasso, and Van Gogh. Don’t forget to snap a photo in front of the famous ‘Bean’ sculpture in Millennium Park.

• Catch a Game at Wrigley Field: Sports fans will love the electrifying atmosphere at Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs. Experience the thrill of a baseball game as you cheer on the team and learn about the city’s sports culture.

With so many additional activities and attractions to choose from, Chicago guarantees an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

Common Questions

Are the Chicago River Tours Suitable for Children?

Yes, the Chicago River tours are suitable for children. They offer a 45-minute family-friendly architecture cruise and a 1.5-hour guided architecture cruise. These tours provide an engaging and informative experience for the whole family.

Can I Bring Food and Drinks on the Chicago River Tours?

Yes, visitors are allowed to bring outside food and drinks on the Chicago River tours. However, it’s worth noting that there are also drink options available for purchase on board for those who prefer convenience.

Are the Observation Decks Wheelchair Accessible?

Yes, the observation decks in Chicago are wheelchair accessible. They offer accessibility options for people with disabilities to ensure everyone can enjoy the stunning views of the city.

Can I Purchase the City Pass and Guided Tours Online?

Yes, online purchase options are available for the City Pass and guided tours in Chicago. Visitors can conveniently book their tickets online and enjoy a variety of guided tours to explore the city’s top attractions.

Is the Mob and Crime Bus Tour Appropriate for All Ages?

The mob and crime bus tour in Chicago may not be appropriate for all ages due to the controversial nature of the subject matter. It is recommended to check for any age restrictions before booking.

The Sum Up

To sum it up, Chicago in 2024 offers an incredible range of tours and activities that cater to every traveler’s interests.

From exploring the city’s stunning architecture on a Chicago River tour, to enjoying breathtaking views from observation decks, and delving into the city’s dark past on mob and crime tours, there’s something for all.

With the flexibility of hop-on hop-off sightseeing tours and a range of prices to suit any budget, Chicago promises an unforgettable experience.

Don’t forget, with free cancellation options available, you can plan your trip with peace of mind.

You can check if your dates are available here: